One of the most fun parts of bringing our beautiful new wedding venue to completion has undoubtedly been choosing the furniture. That’s the moment, of course, when everything really starts to come to life properly!
Styling the Wedding Barn
Collectively, we always had a clear idea of the style we wanted – something with an elegantly stylish yet rustic feel. The challenge, of course, was going to be sourcing someone who could work with us to deliver our vision.
Thankfully, we found exactly what we needed when we paid a visit to the furniture shop of Antony Payne, at 29 Bell Street in Reigate, where he offers antique, vintage,industrial, recommissioned and bespoke items. A real Aladdin’s Cave of a place, it’s well worth a visit to see some of the amazing pieces they have in stock.
From the moment we first met Antony, it was clear that he understood exactly what we were trying to achieve with The Barn. So, fast-forward to a few weeks later, and among the many items he is currently building for us are 23 tables, all with beautiful reclaimed timber tops, as well as two stunning new bars – also from requisitioned wood.
“Aside from the fact that we loved the furniture in the store, as soon as we met with Antony, it was clear that he just ‘got’ what we were looking for,” says Sheila Benson, one of the driving forces behind our new wedding venue.
“It was obvious that we shared the same vision and we are delighted to be working together.”
“In fact, as well as the tables and the two bars, we also went on to order a stylish sofa, a wing-back armchair and some beautiful old plant pots – among several other items!”
Based at the store in Reigate for several years, which was previously shared between several traders, Antony took over the ground floor himself about a year ago. Suffice to say, he hasn’t looked back since. In fact, as well as the shop itself, which he often hires out for photos shoots and events, he now has his own barn in Wootton where their workshop is based.
Also a big fan of working with other local businesses, having teamed up for events with local chef Dan Britten, Reigate’s craft beer bar The Four Hops and Surrey street-food company The Drunken Mouse, among others, the collaboration with Botley was a natural next step.
“It’s always nice to work with other local businesses,” says Antony, “so it’s great to be working with The Barn at Botley Hill. The tables and bars are coming along very well and I can’t wait to see them in their new home.”
Needless to say, neither can we! We’ll be sure to share pictures with you as soon as everything is in place.
Tie the Knot
The Barn at Botley Hill is a new luxury Surrey wedding venue on the Titsey Estate, within easy reach of London.